Our Move to Sustainable Baby Wipes!

We’ve now permanently switched to using homemade baby wipes in our nurseries. Many of our senior nursery staff with babies have used them for years, and we’ve found them to be more gentle on skin and better for the environment. While not cheaper than trade wipes for nurseries, they are more affordable than retail wipes for parents.

Most commercial wipes are made from spunlace – a fabric blend that usually contains plastic fibres like polyester (PET) and polypropylene (PP). These materials don’t biodegrade or compost and can last for hundreds of years in landfills or waterways. They must be incinerated, which is not a sustainable solution.

93% of sewer blockages in the UK are caused by baby wipes. During floods, wipes can end up in rivers and eventually the sea, contributing to widespread pollution. This is one of the key reasons we’ve chosen to stop using them.

We’re also concerned about the lack of transparency in labelling. Many packets only list liquid ingredients and not the actual materials used in the wipes. We’ve raised this issue with advertising authorities, but have so far only received a polite acknowledgement.

By making this switch, we’re protecting the environment, reducing waste, and supporting healthier choices for the children in our care.

 

What You’ll Need to Make our DIY Baby Wipes!

1. 1 roll of strong paper towels (e.g. Bounty – cheap ones tear easily)

2. Container with lid (e.g. old wipes tub, plastic box, coffee or ice cream tub)

3. 1¾ cups boiled or distilled water (cooled but still warm)

4. 1 tbsp pure aloe vera

5. 1 tbsp witch hazel extract

6. 1 tsp liquid Castile soap (e.g. Dr. Bronner’s)

7. 2 vitamin E capsules (optional)

8. 1 tsp olive oil (optional)

9. Essential oils (optional – 6 drops orange, lavender, or tea tree for babies over 6 months)

 

How to make our DIY Baby Wipes?

To make the wipes, cut the roll of paper towels in half and place them in a container. Mix water, aloe, witch hazel, soap, and oil in a bowl, then pour over the paper towels. Let them soak for 5-10 minutes, then flip the container to make sure they are fully wet. If using a Rubbermaid container, pull out the cardboard roll to start the first wipe. You might need to adjust the water depending on the paper towel brand.

Use them just like regular wipes, and feel good knowing you’re helping protect our children’s health and the environment!

 

Note: If your child has extremely sensitive skin, you may need to leave out the essential oils or use calendula or chamomile.  Do not be tempted to add tea tree oil for babies under 12 months.

 

 

Making the switch to DIY baby wipes may take a little extra time and effort, but the benefits far outweigh the convenience of store-bought options. Not only are you reducing the plastic waste that clogs our environment, but you’re also avoiding harmful chemicals often found in commercial wipes. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on both your child’s health and the planet. Plus, it’s a great way to feel more connected to the products you use for your little one. Give it a try and feel good knowing you’re making a difference!